YAKIMA, Wash.-Citizens for Safe Yakima Valley Communities has been awarded for its collaborative and evidence-based approach to reducing substance abuse.
The 2023 Washington State HIDTA (High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas) recognized Safe Yakima Valley with its “Excellence in Substance Use Prevention” award for its demonstrated leadership, collaboration, commitment to strategies rooted in evidence, and dedication to organizational growth according to a press release from the Yakima County of Governments.
Safe Yakima Valley works with public safety and health partners to prevent substance abuse in underserved populations by mobilizing individual citizens, families, neighborhoods, and organizations in collaborative efforts to create safer communities.
“We feel so humbled and honored to receive the 2023 HIDTA ‘Excellence in Prevention Award,’ said Safe Yakima Valley Executive Director Alicia Tobin.
According to YCOG, Safe Yakima Valley tailors its efforts to ethnic and racial minority communities through such efforts as translating fentanyl-public service announcements and parental education campaigns into Spanish.
Safe Yakima Valley also holds safe drug disposal campaigns and events to reduce the risk of community substance misuse.
“It is our vision to support our youth, so they make healthy choices, avoid drugs and alcohol, and learn essential life skills to be successful,” said Vicki Baker, Safe Yakima Valley Board President.
